1. National Strategy to Boost High-Tech Talent
Deputy Prime Minister Lê Thành Long signed Decision No. 1002/QĐ-TTg on May 24, 2025, formally approving the national plan to train and develop high-tech human resources. The plan targets strengthening Vietnam’s capacity in STEM education and research, building a workforce capable of driving innovation, participating in advanced research, and attracting strategic high-tech investment. It also aligns with national goals of economic digitalisation and green transition.
1.1. STEM Education and Graduate Outputs
Under the approved scheme, Vietnam aims to significantly increase the number of students pursuing advanced degrees in core sciences, digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and biotechnology by 2030. The plan sets a target of at least 35 % of students at each educational level studying STEM subjects, with goals including:
- Around 80,000 annual ICT graduates, of whom 10 % will hold engineering, master’s, or doctoral degrees
- 8,000 AI graduates annually, with 20 % attaining postgraduate qualifications
1.2. Expanded Goals Through 2035 and Beyond
Looking further ahead to 2035, the targets increase to approximately 100,000 ICT graduates per year, including 15 % at the postgraduate level. For AI, the annual goal rises to 15,000 graduates with advanced degrees. Additionally, the plan envisages the establishment of at least 50 high-performing research teams in STEM disciplines, including 30 focused on strategic technologies, and a stronger presence in international scientific research outputs.
2. Implementation Measures and Policy Actions
To achieve these ambitious goals, the plan outlines six key measures, including:
- Enhanced investment policies for STEM education and research
- Financial support mechanisms for STEM students
- Policies to attract and retain high-calibre lecturers and researchers
Under the roadmap, the Ministry of Education and Training will develop standards for talent programs, establish selection criteria for training institutions, allocate training quotas, and guide investment in infrastructure and curricula. The Ministry of Science and Technology will coordinate R&D tasks aligned with strategic technology goals, while the Ministry of Finance will manage corresponding budget allocations.
By embedding these measures into Vietnam’s broader science and technology development framework, the government aims to position its skilled workforce as a core asset for national competitiveness and future innovation leadership.
